Robert J. Schmidt

The Board reviewed and recommended updates to the Personnel Policy and Procedures manual and discussed amendments to the Village Manager's contract execution authority. Discussions covered various agreements, including WSBA liquor licenses, IPWMAN intergovernmental agreements, and the State of Illinois Rock Salt Joint Participation Agreement. The Board addressed amendments to the village sign code regarding political signs and considered new restrictions on e-bikes and electric scooters in the business district. Public Works projects were a key focus, including sidewalk replacements, water treatment plant contracts, a lead service line cost-sharing program, and various infrastructure engineering and pedestrian safety studies. Additional topics included updates to parking restrictions, an Arbor Day proclamation, information regarding a pending referendum, the parkway tree replacement program, and a motion to adjourn to a closed session regarding pending and imminent litigation.

The Committee discussed the progress of the 2026 budget development, noting that future meetings in November will cover the full budget. Key topics included the presentation of the first draft of the 2025 Property Tax Levy, highlighting a 2.9% PTELL limit, increases in police pension funding, and debt service estimations for referendum bonds. The Committee also reviewed budget amendments for the Referendum Fund, specifically addressing engineering costs and bond issuance revenue, which were recommended for inclusion on an upcoming Board of Trustees meeting agenda. Additionally, a brief update was provided regarding utility expenditures and village revenues.

The committee reviewed several development and engineering agreements, including the 2025 Construction Observation Agreement for Timber Trails and a stormwater review assistance amendment for 5600 Wolf Road. Key agenda items included a comprehensive plan amendment for 917 Lawn Court, as well as requests for an easement abrogation and the dissolution of a conditional use permit regarding the First United Methodist Church at 4300 Howard Avenue. The committee also received an update on the Downtown Western Springs Market Assessment and discussed the status of a pending comprehensive plan and development application for 5600 Wolf Road.

The committee reviewed a request from Taco Maya for a Class A liquor license and recommended it be reviewed by the Liquor Commission. Additionally, the committee reviewed and approved the ordinances regarding the 2024 full-year and 2025 mid-year reviews of closed meeting minutes from the Board of Trustees for consideration by the Village Board.

The committee reviewed recommendations for the Village Hall HVAC Control system replacement. Due to significant changes in control system technology over the last twenty years, the total cost exceeded the initial budget, necessitating a request for a budget amendment before the bid can be finalized. The committee also received a status update on the Request for Bids for the Grand Avenue Community Center flooring replacement, noting the issuance of the bid and the scheduled date for bid opening.